The Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation, the Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division, and Utah’s Office of the Medical Examiner are calling on all boaters and water recreationists to wear life jackets. This push for safety follows an increase in drowning fatalities across the state during 2026.
State officials reported that at least eight people have died in open-water drowning incidents in Utah this year. Of those individuals, seven were not wearing a life jacket.
During a joint press event on Thursday, Dr. Cory Russo, Division Director of the Utah Office of the Medical Examiner, and DNR Law Enforcement Major Steve Bullock discussed the impact of these fatalities on families and communities. Russo stated that most drowning cases are preventable and emphasized that wearing a life jacket is a simple decision to save a life.
Russo also advised Utahns to avoid swimming or boating alone, suggesting that having a companion can make a difference during unexpected water emergencies.
According to DNR Law Enforcement, approximately 90% of boating-related drowning victims were not wearing life jackets at the time of their incidents. Major Steve Bullock noted that factors such as cold water, changing weather, unexpected falls, fatigue, alcohol use, and equipment failures can affect anyone regardless of swimming ability.
To assist with water safety, officials highlighted the statewide network of Life Jacket Loaner Stations. These stations provide free access to life jackets at state parks and other recreation destinations throughout Utah to remove barriers to use.
Chris Haramoto, deputy director of the Utah Division of State Parks, stated that expanding these stations ensures visitors have access to life-saving equipment. Utahns can locate nearby loaner stations at recreation.utah.gov/life-jacket-loaner-stations.
